How will Southwest Airlines' new assigned seating change your travel experience?

Southwest Airlines is ending its decades-long open seating policy.

Flights departing on or after January 27, 2026, will feature assigned seats. This change marks a significant shift for the Dallas-based carrier. The airline is moving toward a more standardized revenue model.

New Seating and Boarding Structure

The new system offers different seating choices for travelers. These options are tied to new fare bundles. Passengers can select preferred or extra-legroom seats at booking. Standard seats are assigned at check-in for basic fares.

Updated Boarding Process

The old A/B/C boarding groups are being replaced. The new structure uses Groups 1 through 8. Boarding passes will now show seat assignments and group numbers.

Boarding priority is based on several factors. These include seat location and fare class purchased. Loyalty tier status and credit card benefits also play a role. Passengers who purchase Extra Legroom seats are in Groups 1-2. Customers with basic fares will likely board in Groups 6-8. Priority boarding can also be purchased. This option is available starting 24 hours before departure.

Families on a single reservation will be assigned the same boarding group. This applies to reservations for nine or fewer people. The airline has also stated that gate stanchions will no longer be used.

Changes to the Extra Seat Policy

Southwest Airlines is also revising its extra room policy for travelers. This change is effective on the same date. Under the new rule, travelers must purchase an additional seat in advance. This applies if they do not fit within a single seat's armrests.

This is a significant departure from the previous policy. Previously, customers could request a complimentary extra seat at the gate. The free seat was provided if space was available.

Refund Eligibility

The option for a refund on the second seat remains. However, refunds are no longer guaranteed. Eligibility depends on specific conditions. These conditions include the plane departing with at least one unused seat. The refund request must also be made within 90 days of travel. Both seats must be in the same fare class.

Advocates for plus-size travelers have voiced disappointment. They noted the previous policy was a "beacon of hope." The new rules create financial constraints for some travelers. They also introduce uncertainty about refund eligibility.

Industry Impact and Ancillary Revenue

This commercial aviation policy shift aligns Southwest with other major U.S. carriers. The move is partly designed to boost ancillary revenue. Ancillary revenue comes from selling premium seating options. Other airlines have earned billions from seat fees in recent years. Southwest Airlines aims to offer customers more choice and control. This evolution comes after the airline also ended its "Bags Fly Free" policy. Investors have generally favored the profit-forward direction. The airline's website provides full details on the new Southwest Airlines assigned seating and fare bundles.

• The new policy is effective for flights on or after January 27, 2026.
• The airline's shift to assigned seating ends its five-decades-old open seating tradition.
• The new boarding process uses Groups 1-8, prioritizing customers based on fare class, loyalty, and seat purchase.
• Travelers needing extra room must now purchase a second seat in advance, with refunds dependent on specific flight conditions.

flying.flights is your source for accurate commercial aviation news and global aviation updates.